As the new year unfolds, consider these three safeguards that can help protect your family members more effectively throughout 2019:

  1. Improve Financial Systems: Financial fraud is a serious concern, especially when the family member has large sums of money in retirement and bank accounts. Avoid the risk of financial fraud by implementing a few security measures. For example, all statements and paperwork at home should be under lock and key, (whether physically, or saved in your computer behind strong passwords).  Limit access to the bank account. Only allow select people to make changes to the account. Add secondary-verification on all accounts. Protect credit cards, cash, and other valuables in the home.
  2. Increase Communication: How often do you talk to your family member about the risk of elder abuse and neglect? Maintain open communication. Discuss new scams, common forms of fraud, and other issues that might emerge. It’s imperative to help older generations understand the ongoing dangers of sharing personal information online and over the phone.
  3. Check-In Often: You don’t need to live close to the family member in order to check in on their well-being. Call regularly to see how the person is doing. You might detect a red flag if the conversation patterns change or it is hard to reach the person. Be discerning in these conversations so you can pick up any signs that something might be wrong.

You can’t eliminate the risk of fraud or elder abuse. But many things can be done to greatly reduce the chances that your family member will be a victim to these scams. This year, commit to the steps that are necessary to protect your loved one from the possible dangers ahead. If you need additional information or support, contact our team any time. Email info@SeniorSafeAndSound.org or call 858-480-7551. Senior Safe and Sound.

This information is intended to inform the public at large about this important issue. It is not intended to serve as legal advice.